How motion plastics help make agriculture more sustainable

Motion plastics from igus are playing a leading role in the increasingly popular sector of ‘vertical farming’. The company is working closely with global businesses that specialise in vertical farming, (the practice of growing plants indoors in stacked layers), by providing the lubrication-free tribo-polymers needed for this type of food production. 

igus polymer bearings are used to ensure lubrication-free sliding in small spaces, where their wear-resistance and compactness provide a cost-effective solution for users who do not have enough space to install a traditional greased bearing. Matthew Aldridge, UK Managing Director of igus observes: “The machinery used in vertical farming works in a highly sensitive environment, so our tribo-polymers are ideal as they are corrosion-free, low-maintenance and resistant to dirt, dust and soil. We are excited to be playing such a key role in vertical farming: a truly revolutionary approach that is producing huge quantities of quality fresh food without the need for favourable weather or skilled labour”.

igus says that this method of farming reduces production and transportation costs and also lowers CO2 emissions. Further, it helps to ensure reliable yields and consistent crop production all year-round, and to this end the company is working with companies worldwide to produce motion plastics for vertical farms, delivering full automated sub-assemblies.

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